The ‘Mother Teresa’ Personality

The ‘Mother Teresa’ Personality

I have been writing a personality column for Natural Health, where each month I provide some insight into different personalities. Here is some insight into The ‘Mother Teresa’Personality.

The chances are that you know someone who is generally quiet and kind, but who might surprise you with strong, incisive, and persuasive ideas and opinions about issues they feel strongly about. These people are extraordinarily attuned to the needs of others, don’t seek confrontation or conflict, but aren’t afraid to stand up for what they believe in either. When you speak to them, they will surprise you with their rich thoughts and ideas, yet they’re not interested in status, power, or positions of authority. If you know such a person, you’ve met the ‘Mother Teresa’ or ISFJ (Introverted-Sensitive-Feeling-Judging) Personality. Other distinguishing characteristics include:

They are the ‘people’s person’ and will dedicate their lives to serving others who are in need.

They are passionate about what they believe in, and won’t shirk from rallying others to fight against social injustice.

They don’t get involved in causes for selfish reasons, but are driven by ideologies about what is right and just.

They regard it as their purpose in life to serve others, and will often rush to the scene of a tragedy or disaster to help.

Positives:

They make the most consistently considerate, loyal, and sympathetic friends and colleagues.

If you’re in a fix, need help, or in the midst of some disastrous situation, you can rely on them for sincere, selfless support.

They will go all out to support others in need, without letting the world know about their efforts or expecting praise.

Although they tend to be idealistic, they’ll find pragmatic ways to reach their goals in personal life as well as at work.

Negatives:

Can there really be any negatives to the Mother Teresa personality? I’m afraid so.

Extreme types of Mother Teresa personalities find the give-and-take of ordinary friendships unsatisfying, and will rather part ways with those who don’t make them feel needed.

Sometimes they are mistaken as being outgoing and spontaneous because of their ability to communicate easily and form pleasant relationships with anybody.

Sometimes they have a hard time curbing their zeal and enthusiasm, which can alienate others and put undue stress on themselves.

Since they tend to be enthusiastic about tasks that are important to them, they can quickly deplete their inner strength, and will uncharacteristically withdraw from social life for some time.

How do I deal with a Mother Teresa Personality?

Mother Teresa personalities, though they generally have a rational approach to situations, don’t deal well with conflict. Sensitive and attuned to their own and other people’s emotions, they’d rather try and steer clear of offending others. However, if they can’t avoid conflict, then they’re likely to deal with it head on, which could cause them a great deal of stress.

They can be easily offended if you, as a friend or colleague, don’t acknowledge their support and sympathy. So, it’s good to reassure them every now and again to let them know that although you may not express your gratitude for their efforts openly, it doesn’t mean you don’t value their friendship.

Am I a Mother Teresa Personality?

You know you are a Mother Teresa personality if:

You have a way with words, and can easily establish friendly, warm relationships quickly with anyone.

People generally like talking to you, because you listen well, and are sensitive to their emotional and verbal cues.

You can recall personally meaningful events or conversations with great detail and clarity long after they’ve happened.

People’s lack of consideration for others bothers you tremendously.

You have to guard against overstretching yourself trying to rescue everyone.

Social status, high office, and being seen with high profile people doesn’t appeal to you; you will fight for a cause, and not for status.

What should I do if I am a Mother Teresa Personality?

Schedule some time alone for yourself at regular intervals, otherwise you will burn out.

Learn to come to terms with the fact that you cannot rescue everyone.

Don’t fret about the fact that issues like world hunger, poverty or social injustices won’t come to an end tomorrow; just focus on what you can do, and take it one step at a time.